He was born February 27, 1947 in Portland, Indiana, the son of Everett and Juanita Mays and the grandson of William and Ruth Via and George and Dawn Mays.

He was a graduate of Portland High School in 1965 and received a Bachelor of Science degree from Ball State, where he had made the Dean's List.

He was a U.S. Air Force veteran (1966-1970) with the rank of Sergeant. He was trained in several specialties including, a weapons mechanic supervisor, electrical armament, jungle survival, and specialized warfare. He was an AC-47 "Spooky" Gunship gunner stationed at Pleiku, where they flew into Viet Nam, Laos and Cambodia. His last duty assignment was 305th Air Refueling Wing, Strategic Air Command at Grissom AFB. He received several commendations including: The Viet Nam Service Medal; The Air Force Commendation Medal with a 4 Oak Leaf Cluster; and the Distinguished Flying Cross with a 5 Oak Leaf Cluster and others.

Don worked for Vectren for twenty-eight years, Delco-Remy for ten years, the Manatee County Schools, Coast Gas and sold real estate. He enjoyed hunting with his grandfather, spending time with his family and friends, riding his Harley or driving his Corvette. He loved to travel, spending the winters in Florida and fishing in Canada with his uncle. Don was a member of the American Legion and B.P.O.E. Elks in Portland, IN. He was also a member of AMVETS of Ball State University, United Steelworkers of America; United Auto Workers of America and of the Manatee County Teachers Association.

He is survived by his wife of forty-four years, Mary Joe (Valentine) Mays, whom he married on November 22, 1969 in East Detroit MI; brother, James Mays of CA; his sister-in-law, Ann Marie Newton and a nephew, Donald Wayne Newton both of St. Clair Shores, MI.

He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Monday, August 25, 2014 at Saint Ambrose Catholic Church with Father Mark Walter officiating. Burial of cremains will take place at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 2-6 p.m. Sunday at the Brown-Butz-Diedring Funeral Service & Crematory, 515 E. 53rd St. Anderson, Indiana.